The convenience of a 24/7 GP service has enabled me to get help

“Access to Teladoc Health’s virtual GP is included in my workplace health insurance package, which must have been mentioned to me at some point. A colleague who had utilized it before reminded me of its existence, as it’s easy to overlook these benefits we pay for in our health insurance. It’s often not until someone else uses a service, like claims for vision or dental, that you realize, “Oh right, I should explore what’s available to me, including my limits and any excess.” I decided to try it out to see if they could help me.

The GP I spoke to was excellent. I’ve been dealing with nail-biting for a long time, and since graduating nearly ten years ago, it has transitioned into skin-picking. I know this isn’t uncommon; many friends admit to squeezing their blemishes or picking at them. However, it felt like my habits were beyond the norm. I also experienced hair-pulling, though that’s improved over time. Interestingly, the moment I contacted the Teladoc Health GP service about my situation, I was in a better phase, but it’s typical to think it’s okay and then fall back into a worse cycle.

Habitual issue

It’s odd because I’ve dealt with this habit for as long as I can remember. It’s something that seems to run in my family. I think many people go through similar phases when they are young, like thumb-sucking, and eventually grow out of it. I’d resolve to stop every year, but it was never just about stress. While it may have started as a stress response, I’ve realised it has become habitual. Now, I find myself sitting in front of the TV without any stress on my mind, and I still engage in nail-picking. I recognised that this behaviour has shifted and is more habitual than stress-related, which prompted me to consider talking to someone for guidance.

For a long time, I thought about discussing my issues with my GP, but finding the time for an in-person visit has been challenging. I work in the office five days a week, and while my workplace is flexible regarding appointments, it still complicates things. The convenience of having a 24/7 GP service has allowed me to get help and avoid explaining to my boss why I needed time off.

Accessible Mental Health Support